Lens is in incredible condition, aside from two extremely small marks along the aperture ring — standard wear from normal carry. Extremely smooth focus and decisive aperture ring that clicks perfectly into place.

Comes with Leica leather case, hood, and caps. Will include a rugged E39 UVa filter, if desired. Price includes UPS Insured Shipping to the lower 48 USA.

This is a very special camera, Leica M3, from the very first production run of 5000 cameras, in 1954 — the camera that changed everything. Viewfinder is bright and accurate, and everything is in perfect working order. The only defect with the camera is that the original vulcanite (as shown in the photos) is starting to crack and fall off of the camera. This is quite common, and can be replaced easily.

As you can see, this camera uses "scientific" shutter speeds, as opposed to the modern "geometric" system we all know that Leica switched to a few years later. It's a true treasure.